Our experience with teens, young adults, and families who seek our guidance clearly demonstrates that the community at large
is struggling to maintain a sense of peace within themselves and within their homes. For this reason, we will provide several weeks of inspiration to foster better communication and stronger relationships.
Finding peace is something we can all make happen. It will serve those we love. It will serve our community. And, it is a life’s work; a gentle, important, and calming piece of peace, one day at a time.
Besides his profound wisdom, Rabbi Jonathan Sacks zt”l, the former Chief Rabbi of the UK, was known for his compassion and
acceptance. A young man who regularly attended Rabbi Sack’s shul seemed to have difficulties as he sat alone during davening, away from the rest of the minyan. One Shabbos morning, Rabbi Sacks noticed this man and invited him to sit beside him. He reluctantly agreed. Throughout davening, Rabbi Sacks brought this man close,
including him in the full prayer experience. After davening, Rabbi Sacks embraced the young man and chatted with him to become
better acquainted. At this point, the young man was beaming with joy, feeling a sense of belonging and acceptance he had never
experienced before. The rest of the kehilla watched how Rabbi Sacks warmly welcomed this man, imparting a valuable lesson to each of them.
From that day forward, the young man became a regular participant in synagogue life, forming deep connections with Rabbi Sacks and the congregation. Rabbi Sacks’s unconditional love and acceptance had transformed the young man, showing him that he was valued and cherished for who he was.
It’s easy for most people to connect and include people they like or who are similar to them, but it is difficult for them to consider others who may be different and outside their inner circle. This challenge can lead to exclusion from social groups and bullying, which has become so rampant in our schools and our communities. Children and adults alike feel they have to be the same to earn the respect of a classmate, neighbor, colleague, or even a family member. This feeling of inadequacy can lead to low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety - scars that last a lifetime.
What can we do to become more inclusive and accepting? By building our self-confidence, we can feel safer and less threatened by others who differ from us. We should strive to recognize the beauty in others even if their vision and perspectives contrast ours.
When we grow as individuals in this way, we can gain a stronger inner peace. When we can see beyond ourselves. we bring others into ourinner circle, bringing them peace, too.
sfs